Amber in New England | Updated: November 2026

Summer's here and you're probably itching to ditch the screens and get outside. Litchfield County is basically your playground this summer!

Tucked in the northwest corner of Connecticut, this region attracts visitors year-round. It’s packed with historic towns like Litchfield and Kent, renowned for their architecture and arts, and features an extensive network of trails and natural beauty. Whether you're drawn to farm-to-table dining, local art, or discovering hidden antique shops, Litchfield County is an amazing summer getaway in true New England style.

Table of Contents

• Part 1: Hiking & Outdoor Adventure (Trails, Waterfalls, Sports)

• Part 2: Water Activities & Relaxation (Lakes, Swimming, Spas)

• Part 3: Farm-to-Table & Drink (Wineries, Breweries, Ice Cream)

• Part 4: Arts, Culture & History (Galleries, Museums, Shows)

• Part 5: Unique Summer Fun (Balloon Rides, Axe Throwing, Picnics)

Part 1: Hiking & Outdoor Adventure

Litchfield County is a hiker's paradise, offering trails for every skill level.

1. Hike to a View

• Top Spots: Hike to the top of Macricosta's Lookout or Bear Mountain for panoramic county views.

• The Reward: These vistas offer the perfect backdrop for taking beautiful sunrise or sunset photos.

• Looking for more ideas? Check out my post: 11 State Parks to Explore in Litchfield County, Connecticut.

2. Hit the Trails

• Top Spots: Explore miles of scenic trails at Peoples State Forest or White Memorial (Litchfield).

• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, you might spot a curious deer, a bald eagle, or a family of beavers.

• Always be prepared! Review your gear with my Day Hiking Essentials Checklist: What to Pack for New England & Beyond.

3. Chase Waterfalls

• Top Spots: Litchfield County boasts over twenty-five waterfalls. Kent Falls and Campbell Falls are among the most beautiful, each offering a short, scenic walk from the parking area.

• Experience: Feel the cool mist and enjoy the sound of rushing water. Don't forget your camera!

4. Go Fishing

• Top Spots: Excellent fishing spots like Colebrook River Lake and the Farmington River.

• Know Before You Go: Make sure to obtain a Connecticut fishing license, available online or at local sporting goods stores.

5. Go Horseback Riding

• Try This: Explore the countryside with trail rides offered at Lee's Riding Stables.

• Scenic Route: Explore paths that wind through Topsmead State Forest, offering a new perspective of the Litchfield Hills.

6. Play Some Sports

• Options: Join a soccer or softball league, or gather friends and family for frisbee or tennis at local parks and fields. Challenge yourself with cycling or trail running along nature trails.

Part 2: Water Activities & Relaxation

Beat the heat on the water or retreat to a quiet spa.

7. Paddle Peaceful Waters

• Top Spots: Experience peace with a kayak or canoe adventure on the Housatonic River or Burr Pond State Park.

• Rentals: Rent equipment and launch from scenic spots, or check out places like Clarke Outdoors.

• Gear Must: Get yourself a waterproof case for your phone, you never know when you'll encounter a heron taking flight.

8. Go for a Swim

• Top Spots: Black Rock Pond and Lake Waramaug are popular swimming and sunbathing choices.

• Safety Tip: Many state parks have designated swim areas with lifeguards on duty. Always check signs for designated swim areas.

9. Go for a Sunset Cruise

• Top Spots: Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Waramaug or Bantam Lake.

• Rentals: If you don't have your own boat, rent one at O'Hara's Landing Marina in Salisbury. A serene way to soak in the golden hour.

10. Have a Spa Day

• Luxury Retreats: Pamper yourself with a day of relaxation at luxurious spas such as Mayflower Inn & Spa or A Healing Trail Wellness Center.

• Experience: Enjoy soothing massages and rejuvenating facials, offering a quiet retreat surrounded by natural beauty.

11. Take a Yoga Class

• Options: Join an experienced instructor for sessions in Litchfield County. Try a heated room at Sanctuary Power Yoga, outdoors at LAM Yoga, or even Goat Yoga at Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust.

12. Read a Book in a Hammock

• Find Your Spot: Find a peaceful spot, grab a good book, and unwind surrounded by nature. Litchfield County’s many state parks are bound to have the perfect location.

Part 3: Farm-to-Table, Food & Drink

Litchfield County is a celebrated hub for local flavors.

13. Sample Local Flavors (Farm-to-Table)

• Top Spots: Go out for farm-to-table cuisine at restaurants like Arethusa Farm or Community Table.

• The Ethos: These restaurants showcase the freshest locally sourced ingredients, celebrating the region's agricultural heritage.

14. Take a Winery Tour

• Top Spots: Go for a tasting at a vineyard like Hawk Ridge Winery or Sunset Meadow Vineyards.

• Experience: Explore the vineyard landscapes, learn about winemaking, and sample handcrafted wines unique to Litchfield County.

15. Explore the Brewery Scene

• Top Spots: Sample Connecticut craft beers at local breweries like Norbrook Farms Brewery, Kent Falls Brewing Co., or Legitimus Brewery. Cheers to a fun summer!

16. Sip at the Distillery

• Try This: Sample handcrafted spirits and learn about the distillation process at the Litchfield Distillery.

17. Pick your Own Berries

• Top Spots: Head to a local farm like Litchfield Hills Blueberry Farm or Deeply Rooted Farms to pick fresh berries. There's nothing quite like the taste of fresh-picked berries!

18. Grab a Scoop (or two)

• Top Spots: Beat the heat with artisanal ice cream from local favorites like Arethusa Dairy or Scoop It Up.

Part 4: Arts, Culture & History

Dive into the rich history and vibrant arts scene of the area.

19. Catch an Outdoor Summer Concert

• Venues: Pack a blanket and lawn chairs for outdoor concerts at charming spots like Litchfield Town Greene or South Farms in Morris.

• Experience: Enjoy live music against the backdrop of a summer sunset—a perfect way to relax and unwind.

20. Step Back in Time

• Top Sites: Visit historical sites like The Tapping Reeve House, Institute for American Indian Studies, or the Lock Museum of America.

• The View: Each offers a unique look into the county's past with artifacts and exhibits.

21. Explore Art Galleries

• Top Spots: Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene at galleries like Five Points Gallery or the Aloft Gallery.

• Discover: These venues showcase works by talented local artists spanning a variety of mediums.

22. Go Antiquing

• Top Spots: Hunt for unique treasures at shops like RT FACTS Design & Antiques (Kent) and Flea At 99 Indoor Flea Market (Canaan).

• Finds: These shops offer vintage furniture, collectibles, and decor pieces that reflect the region's rich history.

23. Catch a Show

• Venues: Enjoy a summer production at the renowned Infinity Music Hall in Norfolk or Torrington Warner Theater. These theaters offer a diverse range of performances.

24. Attend a Summer Festival

• Events: Get into the spirit of summer with festivals like the Podunk Bluegrass Music Festival or the Litchfield Jazz Fest.

25. Attend a Farmers Market

• Support Local: Browse the fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and delicious treats from local farmers and artisans.

26. Visit a Working Farm

• Top Spots: Learn about sustainable agriculture and farm life at places like White Flower Farm or Thorncrest Chocolate Goshen.

27. Smell the Flowers

• Gardens: Wander through the blooms at Hollister House Garden, Topsmead State Forest, and Bellamy-Ferriday House and Garden.

Part 5: Unique Summer Fun

Looking for something different? Litchfield County has a wide variety of quirky and memorable activities.

28 . Test your Axe-Throwing Skills

• Try This: Become a lumberjack at Litchfield County Axe House. It challenges your accuracy and precision, safety is a top priority with trained staff guiding you.

29. Go Antiquing

• Top Spots: Hunt for unique treasures at shops like RT FACTS Design & Antiques (Kent) and Flea At 99 Indoor Flea Market (Canaan).

30. Bike the Scenic Routes

• Ride Options: Cruise along country roads or dedicated bike paths. Rent electric bikes from places like Covered Bridge Electric Bike for an effortless ride.

31. Go Mini-Golfing

• Try This: Challenge your friends and family to a round of mini-golf at local courses like R&B Mini Golf. (Don't forget the go-karts and ice cream!)

32. Stargaze at Night

• Why Here: Escape the city lights! Litchfield County has many dark sky locations away from light pollution, providing optimal conditions for stargazing.

33. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

• Try This: Soar above the picturesque Litchfield Hills with Berkshire Balloons for panoramic view, an unforgettable experience.

34. Take a Pottery Class

• Studios: Get creative and learn the art of pottery making at a local studio like Glazey Dayz or Create Escape Studio.

35. Destroy Some Objects

• Release Stress: Visit Smash Room CT in Watertown. Suit up, grab a bat, and let loose on breakable objects for a memorable and stress-relieving experience.

36. Go Bowling or Play Arcade Games

• Try This: Head to a family entertainment center like Thomaston Lanes for classic fun. Perfect for a rainy summer day or a summer night indoors.

37. Savor a Picnic

• Pack Your Basket: Grab goodies from local shops and find a scenic spot at White Memorial Conservation Center or set up at a picnic table at Mohawk State Forest.

38. Have a Bonfire

• The Classic: Gather around a crackling bonfire under the stars, roast marshmallows, and share stories. A cozy way to spend summer evenings.

39. Explore the Scenic Backroads

• The Route: Hop in the car and wind your way through charming villages, past historic landmarks, and alongside rolling hills.

• Discover: Look for covered bridges, quaint country stores, and panoramic viewpoints. These drives deliver the true charm of Litchfield County.

If you're looking for a perfect summer getaway that's all about exploring New England charm and enjoying the great outdoors, Litchfield County, Connecticut should definitely be on your radar.

Start planning your adventure today and discover why Litchfield County is the perfect destination for your next outdoor getaway!